New data science bootcamp for London government

A new bootcamp to increase data science skills across London’s local government has been launched by the London Office of Technology and Innovation.

The 12-week programme will see 15 officers working for London boroughs and the Greater London Authority selected for the pilot cohort of this new data science bootcamp. The programme blends structured training with project-based mentoring and will develop coding and analysis skills for data matching projects.

It is hoped that the scheme will improve the officers’ ability to help London boroughs and the GLA to use data to gain a deeper understanding of the city, underpin policy and design more effective services.

Eddie Copeland, Director of LOTI, said: "Using data intelligently and responsibly is absolutely key to enabling local government to be truly responsive to their residents' needs. This programme will help ensure that London boroughs have access to advanced data skills in-house, aiding them in using the information at their disposal to deliver better, more coordinated services for Londoners."    

Mayor Philip Glanville, London Councils’ Digital Champion, said: “Using data more effectively to serve the capital’s residents and businesses will be a real gamechanger for London boroughs and the GLA, especially as we commit to building back better after the Covid-19 pandemic and deliver the nine recovery missions. This brilliant pilot programme brings together local government insight and the cutting-edge knowledge of the ONS to strengthen London’s capabilities in data science.

“Congratulations to our first cohort of recruits, who help continue LOTI's focus on bringing together London's government and support the development of in-house public sector digital and data skills across the capital for the benefit of citizens, boroughs and the wider city. I’m excited to see how we can harness their skills to address the most pressing challenges we face and develop innovative solutions we may not have considered before.”